Washing your curtains or blinds is actually not as difficult as you might think. However, as with all cleaning, it’s best to nip dust and grease in the bud.
Washing of curtains
If there is a care label on your ready-made curtains you should of course follow it. Choose the recommended gentle cycle - typically a wool program with low spin. It is important that the water level is high, as high water level protects the fabric. If you have large curtains, consider whether you would rather do two washes, instead of putting both curtains together in the same wash.
If you are unsure whether the curtains can take a cycle in the washing machine, then you can of course wash your curtains by hand. Whether you wash your curtains by hand or machine, it's a good idea to hang them while they are still damp to avoid unnecessary folds while drying. Wring them well up or centrifuge them on low speed. Add newspapers or a towel under the curtains to collect excess water so you protect your floor.
Cleaning of venetian blinds
The easiest way to clean your venetian blinds is with a blind brush or microfiber cloth. Are your blinds greasy? If so, then you should use a wet wipe or a damp cloth. Use clean water and if necessary add a little washing up liquid.
It is best not to take your blinds down to wash them, as it can be very time consuming. Aluminum venetian blinds can easily get ugly cracks in the sides, so apply caution. Add the blinds gently to a bath tub or in the bottom of the shower and wash them with a soft brush in warm water, mild detergent and vinegar. Add perhaps a little rinse aid to the water you clean the blinds with. The water drops will prevent stains. Hang the blinds up and let them dry before you put them back in the brackets over the window.
Cleaning of vertical blinds
Vertical blinds should be dusted with a microfiber cloth or another dust brush. If an accident occurs and the slats are spotted, they can then be taken down and washed by hand. The slats must not be folded directly. Washing this type of blind must be done gently. Roll the slats but let them fill as much as possible in the shower or bathtub. It is recommended for most vertical blinds to be washed in cold water. Some vertical blinds can stand soaking at a maximum of 30 degrees. Always check the washing instructions.
Pleated blinds
Pleated blinds can be dusted with a microfibre or a damp cloth.
Roller blinds
Roller blinds are rarely dirty as they are either rolled together or completely vertical. Most roller blinds can be easily dusted with a cloth or vacuumed if needed. They can also be cleaned with a damp cloth and a small amount of washing up liquid.
Roman blinds
Roman blinds can also easily be dusted with a cloth or brush. They can also be taken down and washed, but this is a complicated process, since the cords can easily get wound together.
